I've decided to purchase a Giant Roam 1 bicycle from my LBS. I was all set to get the 2011 model (http://www.giant-bicycles.com/en-us/...am/7507/44080/ (LBS special order direct from Giant) but I found out that the 2012 models are coming out next week. I've also learned that for 2012, other than some nice color changes and the introduction of a new higher end model with hydraulic brakes and hydraulic lockout (Roam 0), they've changed around some of the components. Specifcially, with the Roam 1, they got rid of the SRAM X5 rear derailleur and Shimano Altus front derailleur combo and now went with all Shimano Acera components. All other components on the 2011 and 2012 Roam 1 look like they're the same. Which is a better combo - all Acera or the Altus/SRAM X5 combo? I know that the Acera is on the low end and Altus is even below that, but is the SRAM X5 better than the Acera? Did Giant downgrade components on their Roam 1 for '12? Note:They did put the SRAM X5 on the NEW Roam 0 and list it as an "upgrade" from the Roam 1 which is what got me thinking in the first place.

The Roam 2 now has a lockout (new for 2012) and continues with the SRAM X4 components. I'd be happy with the Roam 2 for '12 now that it has the lockout fork (which is the main reason I'm going with the Roam 1) but Giant is not sure on pricing/availability yet on either the Roam 2 or the Roam 0. Because of that, I'm purchasing the Roam 1 as planned (I don't need the disc brakes but it comes with it so....).

The LBS isn't yet discounting the 2011 Roam 1 any more than the 2012 model (they're both the same price). The question is: Should I buy the 2011 model OR the 2012 model? I like the color of the 2012 model (black) over that of the 2011 (white), but I'm not buying the bike based on color. Which has the better components, the 2011 or the 2012?

I don't know that you are really going to notice the difference in the changed components that much unless you have previously used one or the other or both. I had a 2009 Giant Sedona ST and currently have a 2010 Giant Cypress. The Cypress and Sedona are pretty even across their models with the exception of the frame design, adjustable stem and the wheel size. Both had the Sedona had the Tourney components and the Cypress has the Altus components. I really couldn't tell the difference in the upgraded components between the Sedona and the Cypress as they both felt the same as far as shifting went. The Cypress has a non-lockout fork and I have ridden that bike over 2,500 miles since I bought it last July and I haven't noticed any more difficulties on climbs with it than I did the Sedona with a solid fork. Mind you, we don't have mountains or real big hills here in Florida, but for the ones we do have, the Cypress tackled them pretty well.

I assume that you have ridden the bikes so if the bike is comfortable and is a good fit, the next thing to consider is the WOW Factor. Get the one you like the best and ride the hell out of it.

Thanks for the replies. I tried the Trek 7.2 FX, 8.2 & 8.3 DS, and the Kaitai which all have very similar shimano components. Liked the DS more than the FX as far as comfort goes. Didn't like the thin bars on the Kaitai. Have tried the '11 Roam 1 in small and medium and loved it, especially the lockout. Medium (19") was a touch too big so I went with the small (17") and ordered the 2012 model. That said, as the '12s aren't out yet, I wasn't able to try it. The Trek 8.3 DS has the most similar Shimano stuff to the '12 Roam 1. I should be receiving it by the end of this week. Glad to know that the component change is fairly insignificant. The '12 color scheme is slick in black with some red detailing and has that "WOW" factor. If anybody is curious what it looks like, you can go to the Giant Taiwan site and check out their version http://www.giant-bicycles.com/zh-tw./bikes/model/roam/8493/47357/. From what I can tell, the US version will be very close. As for price of the 2012 vs 2011, msrp remains at $620. My LBS is giving me such a great deal, I can't complain at all. Will post a picture as soon as I get it.

Took it for a 25 mile ride today from the southern tip of Manhattan to the very northern tip and it was phenominal. Used the unlocked shocks most of the ride and appreciated the way they absorbed the bumps. I'm glad I went with the Roam vs some of the other bikes I looked at that had regular unshocked forks. I'm also really digging the matte black color. Definitely looks a lot cooler (IMHO) than the glossy white of last year's model. I'm very happy with it so far.

no need to apologize, I'm glad to learn. so Sram XX is in a class alone?

Yes... you may put it this way
When SRAM came out with XX they position it higher than XTR group.
... to make Shimano to came out with the new index .. (if you noticed the groups have different indexes).

To make a long story short - same level bikes can be equipped with X5 or Deore...and it does not make one better than another.. if nothing else..

How big is the difference between Deore and Acera and would an average person be able to distinguish? Easy enough to upgrade within manufacturers but is it even truly necessary? Also wondering if the combo of x5 with altus is better or worse than all Acera? Have put on about 100 miles so far and have been satisfied with the gears.

Holy smokes! $819.99 for the new Roam 0?? That's a big jump up from the Roam 1! Interesting that they actually went with the SRAM X9 and NOT the X5 as their pre-release info previously stated.

Not quite. There won't ever be a X9 equipped bike for $819. SMD quoted the site and it says "SRAM 9 speed drivetrain", not X9 drivetrain. SRAM actually offers all the way down to X3 with 9 speed cassettes. My bet is that the bike has X5 or X7 rear derailleur and lower components elsewhere.

I just brought my 2012 Roam 0 home. I got it from my local dealer for 819.99 minus the tax and they threw in in skid lid. It has the upgraded air shock with hydro lockout, hydro brakes which are a supreme improvement to any mechanical setup, 9 speed gears which allow for easy and cheaper upgrading of the sram X5 derailer and a promisingly aggressive 700 X 40 X-tire. I was able to order a 45mm Extremely aggressive tire called the panoracer for a pricey $60 per tire but if you want a dirt digger, its the only one! Overall, if you want an upgradable bike that already has a head start, you can't beat the price. Especially when you find a shop that will do lifetime tune-ups for free!

*snip* I was able to order a 45mm Extremely aggressive tire called the panoracer for a pricey $60 per tire *snip*

How did those tires work out for you? I'd be interested in getting those and swapping tires for riding the few trails that are here. Anybody have a set of SX2 rims with rotors for sale? That would make it a lot easier